9355669 Friedman The New York Hall of Science will develop and institutionalize the Science Discovery Lab System, providing training and ongoing support in astronomy education for New York City public and private 6th and 8th grade science teachers. This new system provides a model for addressing all mandated science curriculum areas. The project trains and supports 120 teachers via: a three week, graduate level institute in content and pedagogy provided by college, university and science center staff; peer training in schools and the science center; and tangible ongoing support, including annual Update Conferences, consultation, and provision of high equipment. The program goals are to: increase teachers' knowledge of astronomy concepts; change teaching methodology from rote to hands-on; develop a city-wide teacher support network establish ongoing peer training; and institutionalize these improvements on a self-supporting, long-term basis. During the grant 120 teachers will be trained. They in turn will instruct their 4200 students and train a minimum of 120 additional teachers. ***
